Throwing Gravity is:

Nick James – Lead Vocals / Rhythm Guitar

Jesse Triplett – Lead Guitar / Background Vocals

Sam Hindmarsh – Bass Guitar / Background Vocals

Chris Scott – Keys / Programming

Tom DuPree III ““ Drums

Rock quintet Throwing Gravity is a band based out of Nashville that undoubtedly will end up taking the mainstream rock scene by storm. As a band that has already begun to make their presence known by sharing stages with bands such as Second Hand Serenade, Parachute, Chevelle and Evans Blue. It seems only fitting that these Tennessee rockers would ultimately achieve the same level of acclaim as these other major players.

After a tenuous first few years with a fair share of ups and downs (including a name change and several album recording obstacles), Throwing Gravity has finally released their new album, It’s Not The End. Though I’ve drawn similarities to other favorite bands of mine, including Theory of a Deadman, Adelitas Way, and Shinedown.  I also have noted that this band has a fresh and unique sound all its own; with an album that is equal parts emotional ballads combined with energetic rock anthems.

It’s Not The End kicks off with the opening song, “Circles”. From the opening techno vibes, this song has the energy fitting for an opening track. Instrumentally, the overall sound of this song makes me think of the band Adelitas Way. What perhaps drew me into this song the most though, was the chorus — particularly Nick James’s vocals and the satisfying guitar vibes.

The second song, “Given Up On Giving Up On You” slows down the pace a bit. Although this song has a more slower and emotional tone, it is still extremely powerful and cutting edge with its vocals, guitar, and drums. This is somewhat comparable to the ballads from Shinedown’s The Sound of Madness. Like those songs, the melodic ballads on this album, prove that you don’t have to sacrifice energy to make a heartfelt song that flows well.

“Best Time” is an even more memorable ballad than the previous song. Just like a 3 Doors Down single, I can easily see this song playing across a number of modern rock radio stations. Lyrically, this song’s quintessential message of “becoming a better person” is poignant and inspiring, as highlighted by James’s clever and balanced vocals.

The fourth song, “The Inside”, is my personal favorite song on the album. Compared to the previous two songs, this song picks up the pace and energy. I love listening to this song just to hear the chorus over and over again. Nick James really varies his vocal range, which goes well with the faster pace of the track. Along with the notable addition of backing vocals and cohesive use of guitar and a pounding drum beats, this song is really ties off into a complete satisfying package. It is radio-worthy and definitely one of the highest points of the record.

“Missing You” is another love song that deeply impacted me with James’s vocals and well thought out lyrics. This also made it clear to me that Throwing Gravity’s ballads may well be their trump card because of how familiar yet unique and expressive they are.

“Here We Go Again” is a slightly more aggressive and energetic song about a relationship not working out. It is nice to hear the band pick up pace a bit with adrenaline-pumping thrashes and vibes.

“Wake Up” slows the pace with more inspirational tones to it, and fits well amongst the other tracks.

“What She Wants” starts off slow but picks up over the course of the song. Though the lyrics aren’t varied, I still praise it for the talented use of vocals and satisfying drum beats.

“Stop” is another favorite on the album due to its contrasting aggressive, “spit in your face” undertones. The song deals with having someone use, abuse, and steal from you and learning to just deal with him or her and move on. The unique opening, the overall upbeat tempo of the song, and the way the lyrics “say how it is” makes this aggressive anthem very memorable.

The album finally culminates in the final song, “Lost In You”. Even with many songs being emotional, lighthearted ballads, this one is undoubtedly the softest and most melodic. Placing this track last is a perfect way to end the album on a passionate note.

The only negative thing I can say about the album is lyrically I wasn’t left awestruck. For the most part, the lyrics were sometimes generic. There were only a few occasions when I was dazzled by extraordinary or thought-provoking words. But this is only a minor thing, since the lyrics are composed well enough to get the job done.   Over all, the songs on this particular album are instrumentally balanced in a way that they are light enough to be radio friendly, while still being energetic and jarring enough not to bore the adrenaline junkies out there.

Finally, after listening to It’s Not The End, I think that Throwing Gravity definitely has good things waiting for them, and that their unique sound is defined by their emotive ballads.   Their sound is unique in that they band is able to create emotional and energetic modern rock vibes, yet not so foreign that we can’t compare their sound to other well-known rock bands.   I look forward to what  Throwing Gravity has to offer in future releases.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Eric Eric is a huge fan of hard rock, alternative rock and metal; his ipod is practically glued to his hand at all times as he is constantly exploring new bands and new tastes of rock music. Eric recieved a college Associate's degree in Journalism and is pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in English. His personal website can be viewed at http://ericemporium.blogspot.com/.